Test hopefuls wanted home

Press, 19 April 1989, Page 35

Test hopefuls wanted home

PA Auckland British-based Kiwi league players are expected to be playing in New Zealand by June 1 if they want to be part of this year’s test series against Australia. The acting convener of selectors, Ken Stirling, has written to nine leading prospects offering financial assistance to return to New Zealand or Australia for the offseason. Mr Stirling said the decision stemmed from concern about last year's disappointing World Cup final performance. "We want to see some commitment to playing test football for New Zealand. Individuals may have valid reasons why they cannot return but their responses will certainly be taken into consideration when the teams are named,” he said.

The letters — to Tony Iro, Dean Bell, Adrian Shelford, Kurt Sorensen, Shane Cooper, Emosi Koloto, Mark BrookeCowden, Charlie McAllister

and Joe Grima — cite match fitness and the need for selectors to judge on up-to-date form, as the reasons for returning. The group has been split into two categories. Members of the first are guaranteed travel reimbursement for returning, while those in the second category will have their fares refunded if they make the Kiwis. Mr Stirling would not reveal the categories the individuals fellinto. All the British-based players are free to negotiate their own deals with New Zealand or Australian clubs. The letters will be followed up by New Zealand Rugby League officials, John Bray, and Michael Knowles, when they visit Britain for next month’s international board, meeting. The Kiwi selectors are expected to name their side for the first test against Australia after the match between Auckland and the Rest of New Zealand at Carlaw Park, Auckland, on June 23.